What is x64 and x86 architecture

Skip to main content. This browser is no longer supported. Download Microsoft Edge More info. Contents Exit focus mode. Registers x64 extends x86's 8 general-purpose registers to be bit, and adds 8 new bit registers. The x64 processor also provides several sets of floating-point registers: Eight bit x87 registers. Eight bit MMX registers. These overlap with the x87 registers. The original set of eight bit SSE registers is increased to sixteen.

This calling convention takes advantage of the increased number of registers available on x The first four integer or pointer parameters are passed in the rcx , rdx , r8 , and r9 registers. Any additional arguments are passed on the stack. Addressing Modes The addressing modes in bit mode are similar to, but not identical to, x Yes No. Any additional feedback? Skip Submit.

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It is important to make sure your processor meets the system requirements of a new application before installing it.

Generally, you should install the bit version if given a choice. Definitions by TechTerms. Tech Factor? First Name:.

Last Name:. Thank You We just sent you an email to confirm your email address. X86 refers to the Intel processor architecture that was used in PCs. Model numbers were , , , , X64 means a CPU that is x86 compatible but has a bit mode as well. This is used to include the , a bit only processor.

Nowadays it roughly means any CPU with a bit Intel compatible instruction set. X64 allows the computer to access up to eithe r 8 or 12 cores currently, which lets the machine run at a much greater speed.

In case of a x86, a computer can only access two processor cores , For this reason the dual core processor came into being. Compiling for x64, might give an advantage in speed but limits the application to only run on 64bit Operating Systems. X86 applications are compatible on both x86 and x64 systems. Thus if compatibility is taken into consideration, X86 is more flexible.